Vodafone Fiji Bati center Taane Milne has been appointed as the captain of the team for their highly anticipated Pacific Bowl Championship final against the Papua New Guinea Kumuls, set to take place tomorrow at the Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby. This significant match marks a pivotal moment for the Bati, seeking redemption after a previous loss to PNG in 2024.
In an interview with The National, Milne, now one of the senior players in the squad, shared the importance of his role and what it means to represent his country. “Every year I still put my hand up,” Milne expressed, emphasizing the pride they take in playing for their families, God, and their people. He underlined the necessity for a solid defensive strategy against the Kumuls, acknowledging their formidable attacking players: “Our defence has to be tight.”
Fans can expect a fierce contest as both teams aim for victory in this crucial championship match. The Fiji Bati, led by Milne, hopes to harness their home advantage to overturn past defeats and display their growth and resilience on the field.
Notably, the Bati’s captaincy shift comes at a time when the team has been focusing on improving from their previous encounters. Coach Waisake Kativerata has highlighted the value of maintaining a strong defense, a sentiment echoed by Milne as the team aims for a unified effort on the field.
With the match scheduled to kick off at 5 PM, excitement is building among fans and players alike, making this a must-watch confrontation in the realm of rugby league. Armed with motivation and lessons from past games, the Bati are poised to demonstrate their capabilities and make their mark in the championship.